Bobby Manning

Bob D. (Bobby) Manning, a local rancher, business owner and philanthropist died peacefully at home Thursday, October 17, 2024, in Gatesville, Texas.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 24, at Scott's Funeral Home Chapel in Gatesville. Interment will follow at Restland Cemetery in Gatesville. 

Bobby was born on June 18, 1951, in Odessa, Texas to Jack and Ina Manning. He was their second son. He is survived by his brother, C. Jack Manning and wife, Rhonda of Odessa, Texas. He is also survived by a host of beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. 

Bobby grew up in Odessa, Texas in a neighborhood much like Mayberry. He loved playing with the neighborhood kids in the park across the street. He spent much time chasing horny toads, lizards, bugs, butterflies, and ice cream trucks.

Bobby graduated from Odessa High School in 1968 where he played varsity sports, lettering in football. He attended Odessa College for a year at the height of the Vietnam War. He then felt called to serve his country and left school to enlist in the U.S. Navy. He was stationed at various naval air bases on the East Coast. Bobby was honorably discharged in 1974 with the rank of E-3, Seaman Airman. He then worked for several companies in the New York tri-state area. In the 1970’s, Bobby was encouraged by his father to return to Odessa to join the growing family business during the oil boom. Over the next few years, he learned the oil and gas production business from the ground up. As the boom turned into a bust, Bobby was integral in guiding the company through the tough 1980’s and 1990’s. In 2001, the Manning family sold all of its oil and gas properties.

At the age of fifty, Bobby moved to Gatesville, Texas. For the next 23 years, he oversaw the four family ranches. His love for nature and animals made this a perfect fit. As a fifth-generation descendant of a pioneer ranching family in the county, he had found his home. 

Among his many accomplishments, Bobby had a knack for style and creativity. He transformed an old two-story home into a work of art, which became a popular bed and breakfast in Gatesville.

Due to his fun-loving and congenial nature, Bobby made many friends in Gatesville. The group had poker nights and enjoyed trips to any place that had a casino, racetrack, and good food. Though distance separated them, Bobby and his brother Jack maintained several conversations weekly. They were close and reminisced about family, ranching, Rock Tool and T.V. shows.

Through Bobby’s charitable foundation, he supported many worthy causes. He had an infectious laugh, a heart of gold and was always willing to lend a hand. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and memories.

The family would like to express their great appreciation to dear friends Jannetta and Jackie Spencer and family, and Linda K. Comer and Greg Clary.